MP demands answers

Frank Roy

Motherwell and Wishaw MP Frank Roy has written to North Lanarkshire Council chief executive Gavin Whitefield with a list of questions about the proposed merger of Our Lady’s and Taylor Highs.

In all he has submitted 25 questions related to safety concerns about the Ravenscraig site, the secure containment facility at nearby Prospecthill, the overall site plan, the present school sites and travel time for pupils.

Mr Roy said: “As the MP for both schools, and the Ravenscraig site, I have met with the head teachers and had contact with staff, pupils, parents, grandparents and the wider Taylor and Our Lady’s school communities.

“During those discussions a number of issues have been raised with me that I would ask Mr Whitefield to clarify on behalf of the council.

“I would also reiterate that due to the strong views witnessed at the recent consultation meetings and the amount of unanswered questions I believe the consultation process be halted until such times as answers are given.

“My constituents are deeply worried about the siting and others on the rationale for merging two outstanding schools and I would be grateful for an answer to the points they have raised with me.

“I am also contacting the owners of the site, The Ravenscraig Partnership, seeking their assurances on the issues raised.”

A council spokesman said: “We have received a letter from Mr Roy asking for information on the proposed new £36 million campus on Ravenscraig and will be responding to him in due course.

“His comments will be considered as part of the consultation process which runs until May 16. A report on the consultation will then be considered by the Learning and Leisure Services Committee in September this year.

“The report will be available on the council website and from Learning and Leisure headquarters, the schools and local libraries at least three weeks prior to a final decision being made.”